2 mins
THE FACES
WHAT WOULD PAULINE WHELAN DO?
As an employer with three sites, the founder of Queen salons could face a big bill under the new Statutory Sick Pay Scheme if staff take all those sick days…
Under the Statutory Sick Pay scheme, staff are entitled to five days of paid sick leave this year – that will increase to seven days next year and 10 days the year after that. As employers, we must pay statutory sick leave equivalent to 70 per cent of normal wages, up to a maximum €110 per day.
To be entitled, your staff members must have been working for you for at least 13 weeks, and need to be certified by a GP as unfit to work.
This could cost us a lot. If all staff take their full leave, it will add about an extra €18,000 to our outgoing costs each year. With the VAT increase, electricity and stock bills up, it’s just money constantly going out. You have the older ladies still coming in for blow-drys, but with new tools and bloggers showing how to do your hair at home, the blow-dry docket is down. I love what I do, but it’s hard to be in business right now.
Previously you were entitled to three days of paid sick leave, and every staff member took those days, even those who hadn’t been sick previously. We are trying to encourage staff to not take sick leave unless needed by offering extra holiday days and more flexible working hours for those who need them for family reasons.
If they have no sick days this year, then next year, I will add extra days of holiday. We haven’t said exactly how many days we’re offering yet; I’ll need to see what the figures are like at the end of this year. But if they don’t take their five days this year, I’d probably give them an extra two and a half holiday days. It’s better for the salon. We’re halfway through the year, and only one or two people have had their full number of sick days already, so I think it’s working. @queensalongroup
WHAT MADE ME
AGA MAJCHER Curly Hair by Aga Majcher @curlyhairbyagamajcher
In the world of hair, where straight and sleek often take the spotlight, my journey as a curly hair specialist began with a deep-seated love for the natural beauty of curls. Despite being born with naturally straight hair, I always admired the texture and vibrancy of curly locks. Each coil seemed to dance with a life of its own, exuding confidence and character in every twist and turn. However, I soon realised that the mainstream beauty industry often overlooked the unique needs of curly hair, relegating it to the margins of beauty standards. Driven by a desire to challenge these norms and empower individuals to embrace their natural curls, I embarked on specific education and training. From mastering the art of cutting and styling to delving into the science of curl patterns and textures, I immersed myself in every aspect of curly hair care. Hearing people’s stories about their past hair salon experiences, filled with frustration and disappointment, ignited a fire within me. I was determined to create a haven where every curl and every client could leave with a smile of satisfaction. I sought out mentors, attended workshops, and pursued certifications to refine my skills and expertise. Every setback only strengthened my resolve.Today, as a successful curly hair specialist, I’m honoured to create a space where curls are celebrated, not tamed. My salon is more than just a place for hair transformations; it’s a sanctuary where individuals can embrace their curls.